Supportive exercise machine

ABSTRACT

An exercise support machine configured to support at least a portion of a user&#39;s weight is provided. The exercise support machine can include a frame portion having a plurality of frame members defining an interior region of the machine. The machine can further include two vertical support members extending upward from the frame portion and a lever arm pivotally connected to the upper ends of the vertical support members. The lever arm can include a seat connected to a first end of the lever arm and positioned within the interior region of the machine. The machine can further include a lifting mechanism connected to the frame portion and the second end of the lever arm. The lifting mechanism can control the vertical movement of the seat to provide weight bearing support for the user of the machine.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/304,031, filed on Mar. 4, 2016, to Jeffery T. Lefkovitz et al., entitled “Supportive Exercise Machine,” currently pending, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Supportive exercise machines can be used to provide mechanical support to assist a user with physical limitations, particularly walking and standing limitations, when performing many different kinds of exercises. The mechanical support component of such a device can protect the user from falling and enable the user to use various types of exercise equipment. These supportive exercise machines are commonly configured with partial weight bearing components that can assist a patient during training, where the weight of the user is all or partially supported by the machine. The weight bearing components are also commonly adjustable so that the amount of weight relief provided to the user can be gradually reduced as the user regains strength and recovers from his or her physical limitations. These supportive exercise machines or devices are also commonly used by hospitals, nursing homes, physical therapy clinics, rehabilitation facilities and outpatient centers to provide weight relief to patients having walking disorders and require retraining.

Supportive exercise machines currently known in the art generally require the use of a hoist by either a cable suspended from the ceiling or a cable suspended from an upper portion of the device. The cable has a harness attached to one end that is placed around the patient for support. The hoist can then be adjusted for the appropriate weight support desire by the user.

However, these commonly-known supportive exercise machines have several limitations that inhibit the user's/patient's ability to use the machines effectively. For example, such machines are typically not wheelchair accessible, do not allow for ambulatory functions, require assistance from another person, such as a trainer, to enter and use the machine, place stress on the user's body due to the harness, and are not efficient at allowing the user to effectively regain strength due to the lifting forces of the weight bearing relief components of the machine.

Accordingly, a need exists for a supportive exercise machine capable of easily and effectively allowing a user with physical limitations to regain strength and mobility. A need also exists for such a machine that is wheelchair friendly, allows for use while standing, walking and sitting, and does not require suspension lifting forces for weight bearing relief the inhibit effectiveness and place unnecessary stress on the user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed generally to a supportive exercise machine configured to provide body weight support or relief to a user of the machine while exercising in either a standing or sitting exercising position. The machine can be used to assist the user when performing exercises, either independently, such as natural walking, or through the use of other exercise equipment, such as a treadmill. The machine can include wheels to allow the machine to be easily transported across a floor or other surface and to be moved for use with other exercise or training equipment. The machine can include brakes, clamps or other similar components for allowing the machine to maintain a fixed position. The machine can include attachment components that allow the machine to connected, attached or otherwise secured to other exercise or training equipment, such as a treadmill.

The machine can include a frame portion and a weight supporting portion connected to the frame portion. The frame portion can be configured with one or more frame members that define a frame perimeter. According to an exemplary embodiment, the frame portion includes two spaced apart longitudinal frame members and a transverse frame member extending between the longitudinal members to form a rectangular frame with one open end.

The weight supporting portion can be mounted or connected to the frame portion. The weight supporting portion can include a lever arm positioned above the frame portion of the machine and lifting means for controlling the movement of the lever arm. The lifting means can be configured as any suitable type of lifting mechanism for controlling the movement of the lever arm, including but not limited to: a winch, an actuator, a screw lift, a pneumatic cylinder actuator, an electromechanical actuator or other mechanism capable of allowing and restricting movement of the lever arm.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the weight supporting portion can include a support structure that can include a crossbar member extending between the frame and support columns extending upward from the crossbar member. The weight supporting portion can further include a rotatable lever arm positioned between the support columns and coupled to the columns by a pivot or pin connection. The lever arm can be configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the support columns. The lever arm can include a first end centrally located above the frame perimeter that has a seat connected thereto and a second opposing end connected to a lifting mechanism. According to one exemplary embodiment, the lifting mechanism can be configured as an actuator that includes a lower portion connected to the frame portion and an extension arm portion connected to the second end of the lever arm. The machine can include a lifting mechanism control and operating system and a machine control device configured to operate the lifting mechanism and allow a user to control the machine.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the machine can include side supports configured as handrails positioned along the sides of the machine in order to assist a user of the machine.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the machine can include leg supports configured for preventing a user's legs from moving too far forward and into the mechanical components of the machine when the user is positioned on the seat of the machine.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the machine can include a front support component configured with handles and a chest protection pad to prevent the user's torso from moving too far forward and into the mechanical components of the machine when the user is positioned on the seat of the machine.

The machine can operate by restricting the downward movement of the seat based on a desired body weight support amount selected by the user. The lifting mechanism can be configured to control the downward movement of the seat by restricting rotation of the lever arm. The lifting mechanism can be connected to the second end of the lever arm and prevent upward movement of the second end of the lever arm (thereby preventing the downward movement of the first end of the lever arm and the seat connected thereto) unless a downward force is applied to the seat by the user that is greater than the selected body weight support amount. The machine can include a control device that can be configured to allow the user to variably select the body weight support amount provided by the lifting mechanism.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lifting mechanism can be configured as an actuator that can restrict extension of the extension arm connected to the second end of the lever arm, which can then prevent the upward movement of the second end of the lever arm, and thus the downward movement of the seat end of the lever arm. A user can use the machine by using the control device to select a desired amount of body weight support. The control device, in conjunction with the lifting mechanism operating system, can then adjust the body weight support force provided by the lifting mechanism to an amount that prevents downward movement of the seat end of the lever arm unless the user applies more body weight than the selected body weight support amount force. The user can then position himself or herself onto the seat end of the lever arm and begin exercising.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings figures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

In the accompanying drawing, which forms a part of the specification and is to be read in conjunction therewith in which like reference numerals are used to indicate like or similar parts in the various views:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a supportive exercise machine with a frame portion and a weight supporting portion in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a supportive exercise machine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a supportive exercise machine with side supports, leg supports and front end supports in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of a supportive exercise machine in accordance with a another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 8; and

FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of the supportive exercise machine of FIG. 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention will now be described with reference to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. For purposes of clarity in illustrating the characteristics of the present invention, proportional relationships of the elements have not necessarily been maintained in the drawing figures.

The following detailed description of the invention references specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The present invention is defined by the appended claims and the description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense and shall not limit the scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Referring to the figures, the present invention is directed generally to a supportive exercise machine 10 that can be used by a patient or user with physical impairments when exercising. Machine 10 can provide supportive weight relief to the user while performing exercises in either a standing or sitting position by reducing the amount of body weight the user must support with his or her legs as described in greater detail herein. Machine 10 can be configured for assistance during ambulatory exercise, such as natural walking or walking on a treadmill, and for assistance during seated exercise. Machine 10 can be configured to be used as a standalone device or in connection with other exercising or training equipment, such as a treadmill. Machine 10 can include connecting components that can allow machine 10 to be secured to other exercising or training equipment. Machine 10 can further be configured for wheel chair accessibility in certain embodiments of the present invention.

Turning to FIGS. 1-6, machine 10 can comprise a frame portion 12 and a weight supporting portion 14. Weight supporting portion 14 can be configured to provide full or partial body weight support to the user when in an exercising position (either standing or sitting) by fully or partially reducing the amount of body weight the user must support on his or her own. Frame portion 12 can be configured to house and secure weight supporting portion 14 in order to allow machine 10 to provide the body weight support to the user.

As best shown in FIG. 1, frame portion 12 can include first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18 arranged in a spaced-apart configuration and defining the sides of frame portion 12 and machine 10. According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the FIGS. 1-6, first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18 can have a generally horizontal orientation and can extend generally parallel to one another in the longitudinal direction. As best shown in FIG. 1, frame portion 12 can further include a transverse frame member 20 extending transversely between first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18 at one end of frame portion 12. Transverse frame member 20 can be connected to longitudinal frame members 16 and 18 using any suitable type of connection. As shown in FIGS. 1-6, first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18 and transverse frame member 20 can collectively create a partially enclosed frame perimeter with an opening at the end opposite transverse frame member 20 to allow access to an interior region 22 of machine 10. The interior region 22 of machine 10 can represent the area between and above frame portion 12 where the user of machine 10 can stand or sit while utilizing the weight support relief provided by weight supporting region 14.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, frame portion 12 can be configured with a generally orthogonal frame perimeter where first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18 are generally parallel to one another and transverse frame member 20 is generally perpendicular to first and second frame members 16 and 18. Such an arrangement can provide machine 10 with an interior region 22 having sufficient space to allow the user to easily enter and use machine 10. Such an arrangement can also allow machine 10 to be wheelchair accessible. However, it is recognized that frame portion 12 can have any number of suitable configurations where frame members 16, 18 and 20 are arranged in a non-horizontal or non-orthogonal manner in various embodiments of the present invention.

As shown in FIGS. 2-6, frame portion 12 can additionally include one or more wheels 24 connected to frame members 16, 18 and/or 20 in order to allow for easy movement and transport of machine 10. According to an exemplary embodiment, frame portion 12 can include brakes, clamps or similar components to allow machine 10 to be secured in a fixed position. According to an exemplary embodiment, frame portion 12 can include connection components that allow machine 10 to be fixed or otherwise secured to other equipment and objects.

As best shown in FIG. 1, weight supporting portion 14 can be mounted onto frame portion 12 by a support structure (described below) and can include a rotating lever arm 26 and a lifting mechanism 28 in order to provide the weight support functionality of machine 10. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, lifting mechanism 28 can be configured as an actuator, screw lift, winch, mechanical lift, pneumatic lift, hydraulic lift or other lifting device. The support structure for mounting lever arm 26 to frame portion 12 can include a crossbar member 30 extending across frame portion 12 and one or more support columns 32 extending upward from crossbar member 30. As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, crossbar member 30 can be located within the frame perimeter and can extend between and be connected to first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18. According to an exemplary embodiment, crossbar member 30 can be positioned adjacent to, but spaced part from, transverse frame member 20 near the front end of frame portion 12 and interior region 22. In certain embodiments of the present invention (not shown), transverse frame member 20 can also function as crossbar member 30.

Support columns 32 can be connected to crossbar member 30 at an intermediate and/or central location of crossbar member 30 using any suitable type of fixed connection. As shown in FIGS. 1-6, support columns 32 can extend upward from crossbar member 30, and each support column 32 can terminate at an upper end 34. As also shown in FIGS. 1-6, support columns 32 can be slightly spaced apart from one another across the length of crossbar member 30 to allow lever arm 26 to pass between the two columns 32.

Lever arm 26 can be connected to support columns 32 near upper ends 34 by a pivot connection 36, such as a pin connection, that extends through both support columns 32 and lever arm 26. As best shown in FIG. 6, lever arm 26 can and can extend between both support columns 32 in the longitudinal direction and generally perpendicular to the orientation of support columns 32. As best shown in FIG. 4, pivot connection 36 can be located at an intermediate position along the length of lever arm 26 and can allow lever arm 26 to rotate about an axis that is generally perpendicular to support column 32. As further shown in FIG. 4 as well as FIG. 5, lever arm 26 can be positioned relative to frame portion 12 such that the length of lever arm 26 is generally located above frame portion 12 and at least partially within interior region 22 of machine 10.

As best shown in FIG. 2, lever arm 26 can include a first end 38 and a second end 40. First end 38 can be located within a central part of interior region 22 and above frame portion 12 when lever arm 26 is extending in a generally horizontal direction. A seat 42 can be connected to first end 38 and can be configured for allowing a user of machine 10 to place all or a portion of the user's body weight on seat 42 in either a sitting or standing position. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in the FIGS. 1-6, seat 42 can be connected to first end 38 by a hinged connection that can allow seat 42 to pivot relative to lever arm 26 so that seat 42 can remain generally horizontal when lever arm 26 rotates about its pivot axis. Seat 42 can additionally have an adjustment component for allowing a user of machine 10 to selectively adjust the orientation of seat 42 relative to lever arm 26.

As shown in FIGS. 1-6, lifting mechanism 28 can be mounted to frame portion 12 below lever arm 26 by means of crossbar member 30 and/or transverse frame member 20. Lifting mechanism 28 can be configured as any suitable type of device that can control the movement of lever arm 26, including but not limited to: an actuator, a winch, a screw lift, a pneumatic lift or cylinder, a mechanical lift, a hydraulic lift or similar type of lifting device. Lifting mechanism 28 can include one portion connected to frame portion 12 and another portion connected to second end 40 of lever arm 26. According to one exemplary embodiment, lifting mechanism 28 includes a lower base portion 46 connected to frame portion 12 and an extendable rod or arm 48 connected to base portion 46 and extendable therefrom. Lifting mechanism 28 can be configured to control the elevation of seat 42 by restricting the rotation of lever arm 26. By restricting the rotation of lever arm 26, and thus the elevation of seat 42, lifting mechanism 28 can generate body weight support or weight bearing relief for a user positioned on seat 42.

According to an exemplary embodiment, as best illustrated in FIG. 1, lifting mechanism 28 can operate by controlling the upward and downward movement of second end 40 of lever arm 26. When second end 40 of lever arm 26 moves downward, seat 42 connected to first end 38 of lever arm 26 can move upward. When second end 40 of lever arm 26 moves upward, seat 42 connected to first end 38 of lever arm 26 can move downward. Lifting mechanism 28 can be configured to prevent upward movement of second end 40 of lever arm 26 (and thus downward movement of seat 42) in order to provide full or partial body weight support or relief to a user positioned on seat 42. Lifting mechanism 28 can be configured to provide a selected body weight support force to lever arm 26 (via second end 40) that can prevent any upward movement of second end 40 of lever arm 26 (and thus downward movement of seat 42 connected to first end 38 of lever arm 26) unless a downward force applied to seat 42 (e.g., the amount of the user's body weight applied to seat 42 when the user is using machine 10) is greater than the selected body weight support force amount. The body weight support force can be the amount of force provided by lifting mechanism 28 to lever arm 26 to prevent movement of seat 42 (via movement of lever arm 26) to support the body weight support or relief amount selected by the user of machine 10. As a result, lifting mechanism 28 holds second end 40 of lever arm 26 (and thus seat 42) in a stationary position when the downward (body weight) force applied by the user to seat 42 is less than the body weight support force amount provided by lifting mechanism 28. Lifting mechanism 28 can include a lifting control and operating system 50 (which can include components such as an electric motor, servo or other motor, a battery, a drive crank, a compressor, etc) that can mounted to frame portion 12 and configured to allow lifting mechanism 28 to provide the body weight support force amount to lever arm 26.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, weight supporting portion 14 and lifting mechanism 28 can further be configured to allow the user of machine 10 to adjust the elevation of seat 42. Lifting mechanism 28 can be configured to selectively move second end 40 of lever arm 26 in an upward direction an extension length in order to move seat 42 (via first end 38 of lever arm 26) downward to a desired elevation. Similarly, lifting mechanism 28 can be configured to selectively move second end 40 of lever arm 26 in a downward direction a retraction length in order to move seat 42 (via first end 38 of lever arm 26) upward to a desired elevation. According to an exemplary embodiment, lifting mechanism 28, via control system 50, can control the extension and retraction of extension arm 48 relative to lower base portion 46 in order to move second end 40 of lever arm 26 in an upward or downward direction to control the elevation of seat 42. Such a configuration can allow the user of machine 10 to selectively adjust the elevation of seat 42 to his or her preference.

Weight supporting portion 14 of machine 10 can further include a control device 52 (as best illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 12) that is in communication with and controls the lifting mechanism control and operating system 50 and allows the user of machine 10 to selectively and variably adjust one or both of the weight bearing support relief and the elevation of seat 42 by controlling lifting mechanism 28. Control device 52 can be mounted anywhere on frame portion 12, weight supporting portion 14 or other component of machine 10. Control device 52 can also be configured as a remote or wireless device not physically connected to machine 10. As also shown in FIGS. 8 and 12, machine 10 can include multiple control devices 52 in certain embodiments of the present invention. Control device 52 can be configured to allow a user of machine 10 to select the amount of body weight support or relief provided by seat 42 by adjusting the body weight support force provided by lifting mechanism 28, thereby restricting upward movement of second end 40 of lever arm 26 (and thus downward movement of seat 42 connected to first end 38 of lever arm 26) unless a downward force (i.e., body weight of the user) is applied to seat 42 that is greater than the body weight support force provided by lifting mechanism 28. For example, control device 52 can be configured to set machine 10 to provide 20-pounds of body weight support or relief. Lifting mechanism 28 is set to provide 20-pounds of body weight support force to lever arm 26 (via second end 40), which in turn provides the body weight support force as an upward force to seat 42 by preventing the downward movement of seat 42 unless a downward force (i.e., the amount of the user's body weight applied to seat 42) greater than the 20-pound body weight support force is applied to seat 42.

Turning now to FIGS. 7-14, additional components of machine 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in greater detail. As shown in the figures, machine 10 can include frame portion 12 and weight supporting portion 14 as described above. As best shown in FIG. 7, machine 10 can further include side supports 54 located on one or both sides of machine 10. Side supports 54 can include a handrail 56 positioned along each side of machine 10 and configured to support and/or assist a user of machine 10. As best shown in FIG. 7, a first handrail 56 can extend in the longitudinal direction above first longitudinal frame member 16 and a second handrail 56 can extend in the longitudinal direction above second longitudinal frame member 18. According to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7-14, handrails 56 are configured as elongated, generally horizontal bars extending above frame portion 12; however, it is recognized that handrails 56 can alternatively have any number of different suitable configurations in alternative embodiments of the present invention.

As best shown in FIG. 7, each handrail 56 can be connected to frame portion 12 by a handrail support member 58 extending upward from first or second longitudinal frame member 16 of 18. Each handrail 56 can further be positioned at a height above frame portion 12 that is suitable to support and assist a user of machine 10 positioned on seat 42. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 7-14, the height of each handrail 56 can be selectively adjustable by the user of machine 10. In such embodiments, handrail 56 can include an extension member 60 that extends downward from handrail 56 and can be received within an opening on the upper end of handrail support member 58. Handrail 56 and extension member 60 can be configured with a removable connection component that allows the depth in which extension member 60 is received within handrail support member 58 to be selectively adjusted by a user of machine 10 in order to adjust the height of handrail 56. As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 12, extension member 60 can include a plurality of openings along its length that can be aligned with an opening extending through the upper end of handrail support member 58 and a locking pin connection 62 can be removably inserted through the aligned openings to secure extension member 60 and handrail support member 58 together at the desired height of handrail 56. It is also recognized that alternative connection components and means can be used in various embodiments of the present invention to selectively adjust the height of handrail 56.

As shown in FIGS. 8-14, machine 10 can include leg supports 64 configured to restrict forward movement of a user's legs beyond interior region 22 of machine 10. Leg supports 64 can also be configured to assist a user in preventing knee flexion during use of machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 8-14, leg supports 64 can include a leg support pad 66 positioned within interior region 22 of machine 10 and above frame portion 12. Leg support pad 66 can be orientated in a general vertical direction and can have a padded surface facing open end of frame portion 12 so that the front of a user's legs face the padded surface when the user is positioned on seat 42. As also shown in FIGS. 8-14, leg support pads 66 can be secured to frame portion 12 by an extension member 68. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, extension member 68 can be adjustably secured to frame portion 12 at multiple locations along the length of first or second longitudinal frame member 16 or 18 in order to allow the position of leg supports 64 relative to seat 42 within interior region 22 to be adjusted by the user of machine 10.

As shown in FIGS. 8-14, machine 10 can include a front end support frame portion 70 configured to assist a user of machine 10 and prevent the user from falling forward into the components of weight supporting portion 14 of machine 10. Front end support frame portion 70 can include a pair of front support column members 72 located on each longitudinal side of frame portion 12 and extending in a general vertical direction. According to one embodiment of the present invention, front support column members 72 can be connected to and extend upward from crossbar member 30 in a spaced-apart arrangement. According to another embodiment of the present invention, front support column members 72 can be connected to and extend upward from first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18. As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, each front support column member 72 can include a handle 74 connected to the upper end of the front support column member 72 and configured to assist a user when positioning themselves on seat 42 and to provide balancing support for the user when using machine 10. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, handles 74 can be configured to be selectively adjustable by a user of machine 10. In such embodiments, handles can include an extension arm receivable within the upper end of front support column members 72 and adjustable by a locking pin component similar to handrail 56. It is also recognized that any number of different adjustable connection components and means can be used in alternative embodiments of the present invention.

As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, front end support frame portion 74 can include a front crossbar member 76 extending generally horizontally between front support column members 72 and above lever arm 26. As shown in FIG. 8, control device 52 can be connected to front crossbar member 76 to allow the user to easily control machine 10 and variably select the amount of weight support relief provided by seat 42 and/or the elevation of seat 42.

As best shown in FIGS. 8-10, front end support frame portion 74 can include a chest support member 78 attached to and extending from front crossbar member 76. Chest support member 78 can be configured to support the upper torso of a user of machine 10 when positioned on seat 42 and prevent user from falling forward into the components of weight supporting portion 14 located at the front of machine 10. As shown in FIGS. 8-10, chest support member 78 can include a vertically orientated support pad 80 facing toward seat 42 and can be connected to front crossbar member 76 by a pair of extension arms 82 and 84 that can allow for adjustment of the support pad 80 in both the vertical and horizontal directions. First extension arm 82 can be connected to crossbar member 76 and can extend upward in a vertical direction, while second extension arm 84 can be connected to first extension arm 82 at one end and chest support pad 80 at the other end and can extend in the longitudinal horizontal direction.

As best shown in FIG. 10, the height of first extension arm 82 relative to front crossbar member 76 can be selectively adjusted, such as by using a locking fastener or other suitable connection means. Second extension arm 84 can be connected to first extension arm 82 and extend generally horizontally inward toward seat 42. Support pad 80 can be connected to the end of second extension arm 84 opposite first extension arm 82. Second extension arm 84 can also include adjustable connection means to allow the height of second extension arm 84 to be adjusted relative to first extension arm 82. In addition, second extension arm 84 can include adjustable connection means to allow the extension of second extension arm 84 (and thus support pad 80) toward seat 42 to be selectively adjusted. Collectively, the adjustable connection means on first and second extension arms 82 and 84 can allow the position of chest support pad 80 relative to seat 42 to be adjusted by the user of machine 10 in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

A user can use machine 10 by entering the interior region 22 surrounded by the perimeter of frame portion 12 and positioning his or her body so that his or her torso is directly above seat 42. Machine 10 can be positioned over a static surface or any type of exercise or training equipment, such as a treadmill, as desired by the user. Using control device 52, the user can then select the desired amount of body weight support to be provided by machine 10. As described above, control device 52 can operate lifting mechanism 28 and operating system 50 to adjust the force provided by lifting mechanism 28 to lever arm 26 to prevent movement of lever arm 26 (and seat 42) until the user-selected body weight support amount is exceeded by the user. After setting the body weight relief amount, the user can then engage seat 42 by lowering his or herself onto seat 42 or by lifting or lowering seat 42 via control device 52.

Exemplary Embodiment

Machine 10 according to one exemplary embodiment will be described in greater detail. According to such an embodiment, machine 10 can include a frame portion 12 and a weight supporting portion 14 as described above. As best shown in FIG. 1, weight supporting portion 14 can be mounted onto frame portion 12 by a support structure (described below) and can include a rotating lever arm 26 actuated by lifting mechanism 28 configured an actuator 28 in order to provide the weight support functionality of machine 10. The support structure for mounting lever arm 26 to frame portion 12 can include a crossbar member 30 extending across frame portion 12 and one or more support columns 32 extending upward from crossbar member 30. As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, crossbar member 30 can be located within the frame perimeter and can extend between and be connected to first and second longitudinal frame members 16 and 18. According to an exemplary embodiment, crossbar member 30 can be positioned adjacent to, but spaced part from, transverse frame member 20 near the front end of frame portion 12 and interior region 22. In certain embodiments of the present invention (not shown), transverse frame member 20 can also function as crossbar member 30.

Support columns 32 can be connected to crossbar member 30 at an intermediate and/or central location of crossbar member 30 using any suitable type of fixed connection. As shown in FIGS. 1-6, support columns 32 can extend upward from crossbar member 30, and each support column 32 can terminate at an upper end 34. As also shown in FIGS. 1-6, support columns 32 can be slightly spaced apart from one another across the length of crossbar member 30 to allow lever arm 26 to pass between the two columns 32.

Lever arm 26 can be connected to support columns 32 near upper ends 34 by a pivot connection 36, such as a pin connection, that extends through both support columns 32 and lever arm 26. As best shown in FIG. 6, lever arm 26 can and can extend between both support columns 32 in the longitudinal direction and generally perpendicular to the orientation of support columns 32. As best shown in FIG. 4, pivot connection 36 can be located at an intermediate position along the length of lever arm 26 and can allow lever arm 26 to rotate about an axis that is generally perpendicular to support column 32. As further shown in FIG. 4 as well as FIG. 5, lever arm 26 can be positioned relative to frame portion 12 such that the length of lever arm 26 is generally located above frame portion 12 and at least partially within interior region 22 of machine 10.

As best shown in FIG. 2, lever arm 26 can include a first end 38 and a second end 40. First end 38 can be located within a central part of interior region 22 and above frame portion 12 when lever arm 26 is extending in a generally horizontal direction. A seat 42 can be connected to first end 38 and can be configured for allowing a user of machine 10 to place all or a portion of the user's body weight on seat 42 in either a sitting or standing position. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in the FIGS. 1-6, seat 42 can be connected to first end 38 by a hinged connection that can allow seat 42 to pivot relative to lever arm 26 so that seat 42 can remain generally horizontal when lever arm 26 rotates about its pivot axis. Seat 42 can additionally have an adjustment component for allowing a user of machine 10 to selectively adjust the orientation of seat 42 relative to lever arm 26.

As shown in FIGS. 1-6, and in particular FIG. 4, actuator 28 can be mounted to frame portion 12 below lever arm 26 by means of crossbar member 30 and/or transverse frame member 20. According to an exemplary embodiment, crossbar member 30 can have an extension arm 44 that extends from crossbar member 30 to connect crossbar member 30 to actuator 28. Actuator 28 can be configured as an electromechanical actuator, pneumatic actuator or hydraulic actuator and can include a lower housing or base portion 46 and an extension arm 48 receivable by and extending from base portion 46. As best shown in FIG. 4, base portion 46 can be connected to crossbar member 30 (and/or extension arm 44) and the free end of extension arm 48 can be connected to second end 40 of lever arm 26. Base portion 46 can include the motor, drive, compressor or component that extends and retracts extension arm 48 from base portion 46. According to an exemplary embodiment, the connections between extension arm 48 and lever arm second end 40 and base portion 44 and frame portion 12 are configured as pivot or pin connections that can allow actuator 28 to rotate relative to frame portion 12 and lever arm 26, and allow actuator 28 to change its angle of orientation depending on the angle of orientation of lever arm 26.

Actuator 28 can be configured to control the elevation of seat 42 by restricting the rotation of lever arm 26. Actuator 28 can restrict rotation of lever arm 26 by controlling the elevation of second end 40 of lever arm 26 via the extension arm 48. By restricting the rotation of lever arm 26, and thus the elevation of seat 42, actuator 28 can generate the desired body weight support for a user positioned on seat 42.

According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, actuator 28 can provide the body weight support to seat 42 in the following manner. When the length of extension arm 48 is increased as it is forced out of housing portion 44, it causes second end 40 of lever arm 26 to move upward, which in turn causes seat 42 and first end 38 of lever arm 26 to move downward. As a result, controlling the extension length of extension arm 48 can allow machine 10 to control the elevation and movement of seat 42. In order to provide body weight support to a user of machine 10, machine 10 can be configured to control the extension of extension arm 48 from base portion 46. The extension (or retraction) of extension arm 48 can be controlled by the drive screw of actuator 28 (or the pressure of the compressed gas located within actuator 28 in the case of a pneumatic actuator). As the drive screw moves out, the extension arm 48 extends away from base portion 46. As the drive screw moves in, extension arm 48 retracts toward base portion 46. The drive screw, via the motor within base portion 46 can be configured to prevent extension of extension rod 48 unless an upward force greater than the body weight support force generated by the actuator 28 is applied to the end of extension arm 48. Because the free end of extension arm 48 is connected to second end 40 of lever arm 26, and seat 42 is connected to the opposing first end 38 of lever arm 26, a downward force applied to seat 42 transfers to an upward force pulling on the free end of extension arm 48. As a result of this configuration, a downward force (e.g., the user's body weight force) must be applied to seat 42 (that transfers along lever arm 26 to second end 40 and then to extension arm 48) that is greater than the body weight support force generated by the actuator 28 in order for the extension length of extension arm 48 to increase and cause seat 42 to move downward.

According to one exemplary embodiment, actuator 28 can be configured to (i) restrict movement of seat 42 based on a selected body weight support amount by controlling the rotation of lever arm 26 (via the extension of extension arm 48 relative to base portion 46) and (ii) selectively control the elevation of seat 42 by moving extension arm 48 to rotate lever arm 26. This can enable the user to adjust the height of seat 42 to his or her preference.

As shown in FIGS. 2-6, weight supporting portion 14 of machine 10 can include an actuator control and operating system 50 configured to control the operation of actuator 28. Actuator control and operating system 50 can comprise electronic operating controls, a battery, a motor (in addition to or as an alternative to the motor in base portion 46) and/or a compressor, and can be connected to actuator 28. As shown in FIGS. 2-6, actuator operating system 50 can be mounted on frame portion 12 of machine 10. Actuator operating system 50 can be configured to provide power to base portion 46 in order to force or restrict the movement of extension rod 48 relative to cylinder housing 46. As described above, weight supporting portion 14 of machine 10 can further include a control device 52 (as best illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 12) that controls operating system 50 and allows the user of machine 10 to selectively and variably adjust one or both of the body weight support or relief amount and the elevation of seat 42 by controlling the body weight support force provided by actuator 28 in order to control the movement of extension arm 48 relative to cylinder housing 46.

Similar to as described above, a user can use machine 10 by entering the interior region 22 surrounded by the perimeter of frame portion 12 and positioning his or her body so that his or her torso is directly above seat 42. Using control device 52, the user can then select the desired amount of body weight support to be provided by machine 10. As described above, control device 52 can operate actuator 28 (via operating system 50) to adjust the body weight support force provided by actuator 28 to an amount that prevents extension of extension arm 48 until the user-selected body weight support amount is exceeded by the user. After setting the body weight support amount, the user can then engage seat 42 by lowering his or herself onto seat 42 or by lifting or lowering seat 42 via control device 52.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the structure. It will be understood that certain features and sub combinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and sub combinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. Since many possible embodiments of the invention may be made without departing from the scope thereof, it is also to be understood that all matters herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative and not limiting.

The constructions described above and illustrated in the drawings are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the concepts and principles of the present invention. Thus, there has been shown and described several embodiments of a novel invention. As is evident from the foregoing description, certain aspects of the present invention are not limited by the particular details of the examples illustrated herein, and it is therefore contemplated that other modifications and applications, or equivalents thereof, will occur to those skilled in the art. The terms “having” and “including” and similar terms as used in the foregoing specification are used in the sense of “optional” or “may include” and not as “required”. Many changes, modifications, variations and other uses and applications of the present construction will, however, become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the specification and the accompanying drawings. All such changes, modifications, variations and other uses and applications which do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention are deemed to be covered by the invention which is limited only by the claims which follow. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A supportive exercise machine comprising: a frame portion providing a frame perimeter; and a weight supporting portion comprising: a lever arm pivotally connected to at least one support column extending upward from said frame, said lever arm positioned above said frame perimeter and comprising a first end and a second end; a seat connected to said first end of said lever arm; and a lifting mechanism connected to said second end of said lever arm; wherein said lifting mechanism is configured for restricting an upward movement of said second end of said lever arm unless a downward body weight force is applied to said seat that exceeds a variably selected body weight support force provided by said lifting mechanism; wherein said variably selected body weight support force may be variably selected by a user of said machine.
 2. The machine of claim 1, further comprising side supports connected to said frame portion and located along each side of said machine, each said side support comprising a handrail extending above said frame portion and a support member extending between said handrail and said frame portion.
 3. The machine of claim 1, further comprising a leg support member positioned above said frame portion and below said lever arm, wherein said leg support member is connected to said frame portion and configured to restrict a leg of said user from forward movement when said user is positioned on said seat.
 4. The machine of claim 1, further comprising a front end frame support portion comprising: a first vertical support column member extending upward from one side of said frame portion and a second vertical support column member extending upward from an opposing side of said frame portion; a crossbar support member extending between and connected to said first and said second vertical support column members; and a chest support member connected to and extending inward from said crossbar support member in a direction toward said seat, said chest support member being configured to restrict forward movement of said user when said user is positioned on said seat.
 5. The machine of claim 4, wherein a position of said chest support member is selectively adjustable in both the vertical and horizontal directions.
 6. The machine of claim of 1, further comprising a first handle connected to an upper end of said first vertical support column member and a second handle connected to said second vertical support column member.
 7. The machine of claim 1, further comprising a lifting mechanism operating system connected to said machine and a machine control device connected to said machine and in electronic communication with said lifting mechanism operating system, said machine control device configured for allowing said user to set said variably selected body weight support force provided by said lifting mechanism to restrict movement of said seat.
 8. The machine of claim 1, further comprising one or more wheels connected to said frame for allowing said machine to move across a surface.
 9. The machine of claim 1, further comprising a handrail support member extending upward from said frame portion and a handrail connected to an upper end of said handrail support member.
 10. The machine of claim 9, wherein said handrail includes a downwardly depending extension bar slidably receivable into said handrail support member, wherein a height of said handrail is selectively adjustable by sliding said extension bar into and out of said handrail support member.
 11. The machine of claim 10, wherein said machine is configured to provide body weight support to a user when said user is using a separate exercise machine.
 12. A supportive exercise machine comprising: a frame; at least one lever support column extending upward from said frame; a lever arm having a first end and a second end; a pivot connection pivotally connecting said lever arm to said at least one lever support column at an intermediate location between said first and said second ends of said lever arm; a seat connected to said first end of said lever arm, wherein said seat and said first end of said lever arm are centrally located above said frame when said lever arm is orientated generally horizontally; an actuator having a base portion and an extendable arm extending from said base portion, wherein said base portion is connected to said frame and said extendable arm is connected to said second end of said lever arm; and an actuator operating device configured for operating said actuator and controlling an extension distance of said extendable arm and restricting rotation of said lever arm; wherein said machine is configured for providing a selectively adjustable body weight support to a user seated in said seat of said machine by restricting rotation of said lever arm unless a downward force applied to said seat is greater than a body weight support force provided by said actuator.
 13. The machine of claim 12, wherein said actuator is configured for raising and lowering said seat by adjusting said extension distance of said extendable arm to pivot said lever arm about said pivot connection.
 14. The machine of claim 13, wherein said machine is configured for maintaining said seat at a fixed height until said user applies a force greater than said body weight support force to said seat.
 15. The machine of claim 12, further comprising a machine control device connected to said machine and in electronic communication with said actuator operating device, said machine control device configured for allowing said user to set a selectively adjustable body weight support amount for said machine that sets body weight support force provided to said seat.
 16. The machine of claim 15, wherein said machine control device is further configured for allowing said user to set a desired height of said seat.
 17. The machine of claim 12, further comprising selectively adjustable side supports connected to said frame on both sides of said frame, said side supports configured for assisting a user in using said machine.
 18. The machine of claim 12, further comprising a leg support member positioned above said frame and below said lever arm, wherein said leg support member is connected to said frame and configured to restrict flexion in a knee of said user when said user is positioned on said seat
 19. A supportive exercise machine for providing body weight support to a user in either a standing or sitting position, said machine comprising: a frame portion comprising: first and second longitudinal frame members spaced apart from one another and extending generally perpendicular to one another; and a transverse frame member extending between said first and said second longitudinal frame members toward a front end of said frame, wherein said first and said second longitudinal frame members and said transverse frame member form a frame perimeter defining an interior region of said machine; a weight supporting lift portion comprising: a crossbar support member connected to and extending between said first and said second longitudinal frame members, said crossbar support member an inward spaced distance from said transverse member; two support columns connected to and extending upward from said crossbar support member, said two support columns arranged with a gap located between said two support columns; a lever arm extending between said two support columns and connected to said two support columns by a pivot connection located at an intermediate position along a length of said lever arm; a seat connected to a first end of said lever arm; and an lifting mechanism having a base portion connected to said crossbar support member and an extension portion connected to a second end of said lever arm; an operating system for operating said lifting mechanism; and a control device in communication with said operating system for controlling said lifting mechanism; wherein said control device and said operating system is configured for selectively controlling rotation of said lever arm by controlling an elevation of said second end based on a body weight support force provided by said lifting mechanism; wherein said body weight support force provided by said lifting mechanism corresponds to a body weight support amount applied to said seat in order to prevent a downward movement of said seat unless said user applies a downward force greater than said body weight support amount to said seat.
 20. The machine of claim 19, wherein said control device and said operating system is configured for controlling an elevation of said seat by adjusting the elevation of said second end of said lever arm. 